Friday, 26 May 2017

The 26th of May is Face Equality Day in the UK. It is a day to raise awareness of what people with a facial difference or disfigurement have to deal with on a daily basis. I was fortunate that after my last surgery at 18, I didn't endure too many stares or teasing. I only really endured 18 years of daily stares, pointing, and comments. Some people endure a lifetime. Tulsi's story highlights this. The lady who is filmed has a facial disfigurement and the film shows what happens to her each day as she moves around her community. This is what I experienced as a child and teenager. I am thankful that I do not experience it now, but I am fully aware that there are many people in the world, like Tulsi, who will never escape it.

On this day, please take a minute to think about how you react to other people's differences. Are you choosing to be kind?

Saturday, 20 May 2017

I see you running your child to therapy when your friends are running their kids to Little League or ballet

I see you slipping out of the conversation when your friends are all chiming in about milestones and test grades.

I see you constantly juggling appointments and meetings.

I see you sitting at your computer for hours researching what your child needs.I see you cringe when people whine about what feels like petty things.I see you spread thin but still going the extra mile for your family.I see you digging for depths of strength you never dreamed you had.I see you showing appreciation to the teachers, therapists and medical professionals who serve your child with you.I see you rising early in the morning to do it all again after another chaotic night.I see you when you’re hanging on to the end of your rope for dear life.I know you feel invisible, like nobody notices any of it. But I want you to know I notice you. I see you relentlessly pushing onward. I see you keep choosing to do everything in your power to give your child the best possible care at home, in school, at therapy and the doctor.What you’re doing matters. It’s worth it.On those days when you wonder if you can do it another minute, I want you to know I see you. I want you to know you’re beautiful. I want you to know it’s worth it. I want you to know you aren’t alone. I want you to know love is what matters most, and you have that nailed.And on those days when you have breakthroughs, those times when the hard work pays off and success is yours to cherish, I see you then too, and I am proud of you.Whichever day today is, you’re worthy, you’re good and I see you. ❤~Alethea Mshar